Car wash raises money for Mini Mohawks football program

South Wilkes-Barre Mini Mohawk player Xavier Little, 10, of Wilkes-Barre, dries off a car during the team carwash fundraiser at Sunoco on South Main Street in Wilkes-Barre on Saturday. - Sean McKeag | Times Leader

WILKES-BARRE — Dozens made their way to the Sunoco station on South Main Street for a car wash Saturday to raise money for the Mini Mohawk football and cheerleading program for children ages 5 to 13.

“It’s not that we make that much money,” said Christy Shade, president of the organization. “It’s also a day of fun, interacting with the community.”

Jasmine Dobson, 11, was enjoying holding a sign that let passers-by know they could get their cars summer-ready for only $5.

Dobson, who has been volunteering at the car wash and similar events for several years, is looking forward to cheerleading practice that starts in July.

“We practice and learn cheers,” she said. “Then we do competition and, of course, the football games.”

Beryx Hairston, 6, was looking forward to the season.

“I love football,” he said. “I’m gonna say that I like playing defense because I’m good at it.”

His father, Alex Hairston, who also coaches the team, said he loves to see the players come together and become a real team.

He said it also provides a welcome chance to spend time with his son.

“As long as he plays,” he said, “I’ll be coaching.”

Beryx’s mom, Deanna Roulinavage, raved about what the playing experience does for young people.

“I can’t believe all the skills they learn,” she said. “They also have to know the proper way to wear their equipment. It strengthens not only their bodies, but their minds.”

Rick Abel, Plymouth, was just passing by and decided to stop to get his car cleaned.

“The car got washed and it was a chance to help the children,” he said. “They did a really good job.”

Parent volunteer Kim Nelson said the group will also be participating in other fundraising activities, with young participants doing much of the work.

“All the kids were washing the cars, working really hard,” she said. “And we also had adult volunteers helping, which made the event possible.”

The event netted about $200, which will help purchase equipment, insurance and go toward an annual banquet.

South Wilkes-Barre Mini Mohawk player Xavier Little, 10, of Wilkes-Barre, dries off a car during the team carwash fundraiser at Sunoco on South Main Street in Wilkes-Barre on Saturday.

https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/web1_TTL060318carwash7.jpgSouth Wilkes-Barre Mini Mohawk player Xavier Little, 10, of Wilkes-Barre, dries off a car during the team carwash fundraiser at Sunoco on South Main Street in Wilkes-Barre on Saturday. Sean McKeag | Times Leader